Microwave not turning on

Common reasons your microwave not turning on

The most common reasons your microwave is not turning on are a bad thermostat, malfunctioning electronic control board or a broken switch.

52% of the time it's the
Thermostat

34% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

8% of the time it's the
Switch

6% of the time it's the
Something else

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Common microwave repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these microwave parts may fix your problem.

Thermostat Replacement

A faulty thermostat in a microwave can lead to various issues, particularly affecting the power supply to the microwave's components. Microwaves are equipped with multiple internal thermostats designed to safeguard against hazards when internal components fail. Among these, a magnetron thermostat is common, tripping when it detects excessive current or high temperatures in the magnetron area. Additionally, another thermostat monitors the cooking cavity temperature and activates when high temperatures are detected. Should any of these thermostats trip, the microwave will fail to start, and its lights, fans, and display will cease to function. Due to the presence of high-voltage components such as transformers and capacitors, which can retain dangerous levels of electricity even when the microwave is unplugged, it is advisable to enlist the expertise of a Sears Home Services professional to inspect and repair the microwave.

Why is my microwave not heating?

Electronic Control Board Replacement

If the electronic control board of a microwave is faulty, it can result in various malfunctions, such as a lack of power or heating, or even an inability to turn off the microwave. This is because the control board acts as the central control unit, overseeing critical components like the magnetron for heating food, cooling fans, lights, the turn-table motor, cooking durations, power levels, and the display. When the electronic control board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among these different components. A defective board may also produce unusual sounds like chattering or clicking, or emit a burning smell. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is recommended to have a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests on the board to determine if replacement is necessary.

Why is my microwave not heating?

Switch Replacement

A faulty switch in a microwave can lead to various issues, primarily affecting the power supply to the microwave's components. Microwaves are equipped with several internal thermal switches and interlock switches designed to safeguard users in the event of component failures. Door interlock switches, for instance, prevent the microwave from operating when the door is open to prevent exposure to harmful radiation. Additionally, many microwaves feature a magnetron thermal switch that trips when it detects excessive current flowing to the magnetron or when there's a high temperature in the microwave cavity's vicinity. Another thermal switch is responsible for monitoring the cooking cavity's temperature and will trip if temperatures rise above a certain threshold. If any of these switches fail, the microwave will fail to start, and its lights, fans, and display will cease to function. Considering that microwaves contain high-voltage transformers and capacitors capable of retaining a dangerous level of electricity even when unplugged, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the microwave and carry out any necessary repairs.

Why is my microwave not heating?

What to expect when you experience a microwave not turning on issue

How do I fix the not turning on problem?

Fixing the majority of issues related to the microwave not turning on typically entails replacing the thermostat, electronic control board, or switch. Nonetheless, since there are numerous potential causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. An accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the extent of the repair needed.

Sears Home Services solutions for a microwave that is not turning on

If the microwave fails to turn on, there could be various reasons behind it. To prevent unnecessary replacement of parts, we advise having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying issue. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing all kinds of microwave malfunctions.

What to watch for with a microwave not turning on diagnosis

Diagnosing issues with modern appliances can be challenging without the right expertise. Trying to fix your microwave without proper diagnostic techniques often involves guesswork when replacing parts. Appliances, especially those developed in the past decade, feature complex electronic components that are hard to evaluate. Repairing the latest appliance models through do-it-yourself methods is getting harder as a result.

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microwave

Mark really went over the microwave trying to fix it, this was his second time here for the same problem. August till ? till we get it replaced. we appreciate him for his knowledge of his job. thank you Mark

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Mr. David is very polite and intelligent gentlemen. He came to replace a part on my microwave and he checked the microwave to make sure it was working properly. Mr. David gave me a courtesy call that he will be arriving in 15mins. He arrived on time for the appointment and took care of his job duties. Thanks Mr. David for all the hard work you do at Sears. Keep up all the good work.

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